About This Career Path
Develop programs to control machining or processing of metal or plastic parts by automatic machine tools, equipment, or systems.
Sample Career Roadmap
Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmers, Metal and Plastic
Degree Recommendations
Vincennes University
Indiana University South Bend
Purdue University Global
180 Skills, LLC.
Southeastern Career Center
180 Skills, LLC.
North Lawrence Community Schools
Turning Point Education Centers
Top Expected Tasks
Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmers, Metal and Plastic
01
Write programs in the language of a machine's controller and store programs on media such as punch tapes, magnetic tapes, or disks.
02
Determine the sequence of machine operations, and select the proper cutting tools needed to machine workpieces into the desired shapes.
03
Revise programs or tapes to eliminate errors, and retest programs to check that problems have been solved.
04
Analyze job orders, drawings, blueprints, specifications, printed circuit board pattern films, and design data to calculate dimensions, tool selection, machine speeds, and feed rates.
05
Write instruction sheets and cutter lists for a machine's controller to guide setup and encode numerical control tapes.
06
Observe machines on trial runs or conduct computer simulations to ensure that programs and machinery will function properly and produce items that meet specifications.
07
Enter computer commands to store or retrieve parts patterns, graphic displays, or programs that transfer data to other media.
08
Modify existing programs to enhance efficiency.
09
Determine reference points, machine cutting paths, or hole locations, and compute angular and linear dimensions, radii, and curvatures.
10
Prepare geometric layouts from graphic displays, using computer-assisted drafting software or drafting instruments and graph paper.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tool Programmers, Metal and Plastic
Common knowledge, skills & abilities needed to get a foot in the door.
KNOWLEDGE
Computers and Electronics
KNOWLEDGE
Mechanical
KNOWLEDGE
Mathematics
KNOWLEDGE
Production and Processing
KNOWLEDGE
Engineering and Technology
SKILL
Programming
SKILL
Monitoring
SKILL
Operation Monitoring
SKILL
Reading Comprehension
SKILL
Writing
ABILITY
Information Ordering
ABILITY
Near Vision
ABILITY
Problem Sensitivity
ABILITY
Perceptual Speed
ABILITY
Mathematical Reasoning
Related Careers
Manufacturing
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